A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sequoia National Park vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sequoia National Park and Vancouver can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a magical, breathtaking, and surreal national park. Many visitors also come to Sequoia National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Vancouver travel costs.

Sequoia National Park and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vancouver. Although Sequoia National Park and Vancouver are both popular with visitors, Vancouver has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Sequoia National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Vancouver and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Vancouver is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vancouver and Sequoia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Vancouver from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Vancouver has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Sequoia National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Sequoia National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.


Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Both Sequoia National Park and Vancouver are destinations which offer fantastic hiking.

Around Sequoia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Vancouver. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sequoia National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.


Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Families?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Both Sequoia National Park and Vancouver are very good to visit with kids.

Sequoia National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly national park. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Vancouver is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Vancouver is a great national park to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.


Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Students?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Vancouver is top-notch. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Sequoia National Park or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Sequoia National Park
Vancouver

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Sequoia National Park?

How long in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

In either Sequoia National Park or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Vancouver because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Sequoia National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

Families should spend more time in Vancouver than Sequoia National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Vancouver, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Vancouver than Sequoia National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Vancouver that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Sequoia National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Vancouver.


  • How many days in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sequoia National Park 2-7 
    Vancouver 3-5

One day in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

You'll find around the national park of Sequoia National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Vancouver is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

You'll find around the magical destination of Sequoia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vancouver. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

You'll find around the magical national park of Sequoia National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

Vancouver is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

Sequoia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sequoia National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly big city of Vancouver. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vancouver or Sequoia National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Vancouver Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sequoia National Park $152
    Vancouver $165

The average daily cost (per person) in Sequoia National Park is $152, while the average daily cost in Vancouver is $165. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sequoia National Park and Vancouver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sequoia National Park $64
    Vancouver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sequoia National Park $128
    Vancouver $174
Compare Hotels in Sequoia National Park and Vancouver

Looking for a hotel in Sequoia National Park or Vancouver? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sequoia National Park


Hotels in Vancouver


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Vancouver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $56
    Vancouver $15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Vancouver

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Vancouver are as follows:


  • SkyTrain from Airport
    $6.35
  • Taxi from Airport to Downtown
    $21
  • 15 min Taxi Ride
    $8.71
  • SkyTrain DayPass
    $6.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vancouver

Also for Vancouver, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Yvr arrival private transfer to Vancouver hotels cruise ships : $156
  • White Rock to Vancouver Airport (YVR) - Departure Private Transfer: $108
  • Whistler: Vancouver YVR Airport to Whistler Private Transfer: $118
  • YVR Airport Transfer to Squamish: $411
  • YVR Airport Transfer to Fraser Valley: $618
  • Transfer Downtown - Canada Place Cruise Terminal: $136
  • Private Transfer to Whistler with Sightseeing: $538
  • Private Transfer to Whistler: $462
  • Private Transfer to Ferry Terminal: $172
  • Private Transfer - Canada Place Cruise Terminal: $72
  • Private Airport Transfer to/from YVR Airport: $45
  • North Shore Mountains Snowshoeing with Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Sequoia National Park or Vancouver?

Prices for flights to both Vancouver and Sequoia National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sequoia National Park $53
    Vancouver $54

Typical Food Prices in Vancouver

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Vancouver:


  • All You Can Eat Sushi Lunch
    $8.79

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Vancouver

For Vancouver, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Vancouver Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Mt Pleasant Food Tour from Vancouver: $82
  • A Wok Around Food Tour of the Granville Island Public Market: $83
  • Experience Gastown Vancouver's Elite Walking Food Tour: $96
  • Food Tours Gastown & Downtown with 6+ tastings: $98
  • Experience Gastown Vancouver's Elite Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Vancouver Local Taste Trail Food Tour: $100
  • Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Granville Island Market VIP Walking Food Tour : $115
  • Hidden Vancouver Tour with Dinner: $118
  • Private Granville Island Vancouver's Elite Walking Food Tour: $132
  • Vancouver Chinatown Tour and Dumpling-Making Cooking Class : $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Vancouver $36

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20

Tours and Activities in Vancouver

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Vancouver.

  • 2 Hours Private Tour of City of Vancouver: $147
  • Cruise Ship Terminal to Vancouver Airport Private Transport: $150
  • Guided Bike /E-bike Tour in Whistler From Vancouver: $218
  • Half-day Hike and Bike Tour in Vancouver: $129
  • Spirit Of Vancouver Bike or Ebike Tour: $100
  • Vancouver 1-Day city tour: $98
  • Victoria 1-Day Tour From Vancouver: $190
  • Whistler Discovery and Waterfalls Small Group Tour: : $196
  • 1 day Whistler Tour from Vancouver Experience (chn&eng): $88
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Stanley Park Vancouver: $132
  • 3 Days of Adventure in Vancouver – Activities-Only Tour: $1,650
  • 3 Hours Private Tour of City of Vancouver: $221

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sequoia National Park $7.84
    Vancouver $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Vancouver

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Vancouver:

  • Vancouver British Columbia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Gastown Pub Crawl: $22
  • Vancouver Craft Brewery Neighbourhood Walking Tour: $65
  • 3.5-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $86
  • Vancouver Craft Brewery Tour: $89
  • Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour: $92
  • North Vancouver Elite Walking Brewery Tour: $95
  • Vancouver Wine Tour (Fraser Valley): $122
  • From Fraser Valley Wine Tour with Local Tastings: $129
  • From Half-Day Fraser Valley Wine Tour: $135
  • Fraser Valley Wine Tour with Tastings: $161
  • Stawamus Chief Hike and Local Brewery Tasting: $169


When comparing the travel costs between Sequoia National Park and Vancouver, we can see that Vancouver is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sequoia National Park Expensive? and Is Vancouver Expensive?.